Meet Michal Klau-Stevens, owner of Azure Psychotherapy, a valued member of the West Hartford Chamber of Commerce.
In this edition of Member Spotlights, we share the story behind the business, explore what inspires their work, and highlight the impact they are making in West Hartford’s vibrant business community.
 
What inspired you to start (or lead) your business?
After working in community health, I wanted to provide therapy that meets people's needs better by being more responsive, flexible, and effective. This meant moving away from the restraints that insurance places on treatment. Now I provide therapies that are more effective than traditional talk therapy approaches, with extended length appointments, and flexible locations and scheduling. I can fulfill my mission of helping people live more joyful and fulfilling lives through private practice.
What problem do you solve, and who do you serve?
When someone is struggling in their daily life, dealing with anger, sadness, frustration, lack of motivation, or feeling "stuck," I help them find new perspectives, learn communication and life skills, and let go of past hurts. This helps them improve their relationships, find fresh approaches to address problems, and overcome barriers. I have years of expertise working with women around pregnancy, birth, and parenting, and I work with women and men to address trauma and maintain recovery.
What is a milestone or moment you’re especially proud of?
I recently became a certified trainer for Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), which demonstrates achieving a high level of skill working with the treatment so I can teach it to others. It took several years to reach that goal, and I'm excited about helping more people have access to this powerful therapy.
How do you engage with or give back to the local community?
I'm an active member of the West Hartford Chamber of Commerce, and recently joined the Membership Committee. I attend many of the events and help other local business owners connect more deeply with the community.
What’s one thing people might not know about your business?
I support mental health and wellbeing. Psychotherapy is not just for treating mental illness, it also helps healthy people stay healthy by processing challenges before they become serious problems that lead to poor mental health. Regular meetings to work through common issues lower stress levels and provide an ongoing supportive relationship. I offer mental health maintenance plans.
How can fellow Chamber members best support or connect with you?
Chamber members can participate in a free demonstration session of Accelerated Resolution Therapy to experience how this "Less Talk" therapy works, then share about it within their own circles of community. I also enjoy meeting with other members to learn about their businesses, so let's meet up for coffee!
Azure@klau.net
Azure-Psychotherapy.com